This Tuesday’s Wall Street Journal ran an article “Why do People Become Lactose-Intolerant?” by Shirley S. Wang. The article discussed recent research showing that many people develop lactose intolerance as they age. You probably know that lactose intolerance occurs when your body does not make enough of the enzyme lactase, which digests lactose the sugar that makes milk taste sweet. Symptoms of lactose intolerance include, bloating after eating dairy, cramping, gas and diarrhea. The article fails to mention two important points. One is that our digestion of other food groups such as carbohydrates and protein frequently diminishes with age. The other is that with the use of plant based enzymes digestive function can be enhanced and health restored. Enzyme deficiencies may result in bloating after eating, symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, GERD and a numerous other health problems. The best way for you to identify major food intolerances is to take our 24 hour urine exam and our comprehensive fasting and post prandial (after eating) exam.

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Dr. Patrick Giammarise, DC, founder of the Digestion Relief Center in Chico California uses a whole body systems approach to treating patients with bowel problems and food sensitivities. He can be reached at 530-899-8741.